Manager Matt Clements saluted Tom Meechan after the striker's successful loan spell with St Neots Town came to an end at the weekend.

The former Newport County frontman netted six goals in 15 games during a three-month loan from Hungerford Town, but bowed out after Saturday's 2-1 win over Basingstoke Town.

Meechan, who scored 25 goals during his previous spell with the Saints two years ago, signed off by winning two penalties, one of which was converted to help his side secure victory.

“Tom came in just when we were starting to turn the corner and the rest of the team started to up their game,” Clements said.

“He ended his last game by winning two penalties and scored six goals in 13 games and, as a striker, you can’t really ask any more from him."

The second of the penalties was converted by Johnny Herd in the fifth minute of injury time, the first having been missed by Dion Sembie-Ferris. Saints had themselves fallen behind to a spot kick, but levelled through a David Bridges header.

“We left it late, it couldn’t really have been any later, but it was good to get the three points,” said Clements. “It was heading towards a draw, but on the run of it, it was probably fair.

“In the second half we were trying our luck and we probably never got out of third gear, but I can’t expect them to be at the top of their game every week.

“People say we’re near the playoffs but we’re happy to be consistent and see where it takes us. When I came in it was about keeping us in the league and making us competitive and maybe next season going for the play offs.”

Saints now have a midweek break as their scheduled Southern Premier derby against Royston has been postponed due to their opponents being in FA Trophy action.

Clements added: “The break will be good as Dillian Williams, Scott Sinclar and Liam McDevitt all didn’t play today and, with two new strikers coming in too, it gives us a bit of time to rest a few bruises.

“We’ll have Tuesday off and be back it again on Thursday for two big games.”